North Korea Escalates Tensions with South by Severing Transport Links

North Korea has declared its intention to sever all roads and railways connecting it to South Korea and fortify its borders. This move follows an increase in military build-up along the demarcation line and comes in response to South Korean war exercises and U.S. military presence in the region.

North Korea has announced plans to fully sever road and rail links with South Korea effective Wednesday, according to a report from state media outlet KCNA. This step marks an escalation of activities along the demarcation line that divides the two nations.

The Korean People's Army has been fortifying its side of the heavily militarised border for months, South Korea's military stated, despite the potential for accidents. The increased military readiness was highlighted in July by the installation of landmines, barriers, and the creation of wasteland.

A statement from the General Staff of the Korean People's Army attributed these actions to South Korean military maneuvers and visits by U.S. nuclear assets, describing both as provocations. South Korea's defense ministry confirmed that the United Nations Command (UNC) has been informed, emphasizing ongoing collaboration in addressing the situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)